DIY Network

Granite Kitchen Counter Student Randall Simon tiles a countertop. From "Trade School" episode DTRS-208

Figure A

In this segment, student Randall Simon and instructor Remo Nieto cook up a unique kitchen countertop (figure A). Randall learns some tricks for setting granite tiles perfectly, and with little room for error—he hopes his work will pass Remo's high expectations.

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Basic Tools:

anti-fracture waterproofing membrane
roller
circular wet saw
level
cardboard
thin-set
notched trowel
non-sanded grout
caulk
clean towels
12" x 12" granite stone tiles

Starting atop a plywood base, Randall first rolls on a layer of red guard, an anti-fracture waterproofing material (figure B), and waits for it to dry. Since the countertops won't encounter as much wear and tear as a floor, there's no need for an underlayment. The tiles can be set directly onto the plywood. Randall simply applies mesh tape and a layer of thin-set to all the plywood joints for added strength (figure C).

Once the prep is complete, Randall and Remo create a layout grid (figure D) just as they did for the floor. To get off to a good start, Remo sets the first tile. He applies a layer of thin-set to the plywood, and then back-butters the tile using the same technique as in the floor project.

Figure B

Figure C

Figure D

To make the installation easier, Remo shows Randall a simple trick for leveling the first tile. Using a 2" x 2" piece of granite and a matching piece of cardboard, Remo tapes them together to create a homemade gauge (figure E). The thickness of the cardboard is the same as the layer of thin-set under the tiles. Paired with a six-foot level, the gauge helps them make the first tile perfectly flat. Remo places one end of the level on the tile and the other end on the gauge (figure F). Using a keen eye, they check and recheck the tile, pressing out air pockets until it levels perfectly.

Figure E

Figure F

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